Landmark flag flying high after major restoration
SHIRE HISTORY ON DISPLAY
Port Douglas’ historic flagstaff has been handed back to the community after lying in disrepair for many years.
At a ceremony this morning at Flagstaff Hill Lookout, Mayor Julia Leu said this was a landmark day for a structure that was first erected in the 1880s.
“There is a lot of history and over the years the flagstaff has played a critical role. It’s interesting to note that the flags were flown as a warning of a potential cyclone,” she said.
Freda Wilson, president of the Douglas Historical Society, said this is a defining moment and the restoration is testament to the many people who have made this happen.
“The flagstaff has had its moments which have been well documented. It fell down during a cyclone and in 2012 it was removed from the hill. I am delighted that it has been restored to its rightful spot and can again be a focal point when locals and visitors come to the lookout,” she said.
A structural engineer was contracted to upgrade the footings to achieve a higher wind rating for increased longevity and public safety.
Council also revamped the site, which included installing a retaining wall, chained barrier and an interpretative sign.
The project is a joint effort by the Douglas Shire Historical Society and the Douglas Shire Council.
In earlier times, the hill, locally known as Billy Goat Hill, was bare of vegetation because of the large population of wild goats, so the signal flags were easily visible from Macrossan Street.
The flagstaff flew its first flag in about 70 years for Anzac Day this year.
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